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VisitingNewEngland.com Dining Reviews >>> Wendell's Pub, Norton MA

Wendell's Pub in Norton, Mass., "Wings It"
This little roadside gem turns out renowned buffalo wings
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  Wendell's Pub photo, Norton, Mass.
Wendell's Pub chicken wings photo, Norton, Mass.
Article and photos by Eric H.
With a rather plain-looking exterior and interior roadside
restaurant setting, Wendell's Pub in Norton, Mass., certainly won't win any beauty contests for decor. It's located in a town with a name better known as an anti-virus computer program or Ralph Kramden's sidekick in the classic television series, The Honeymooners. The service can be a bit slow as two fryolators, one grill and only one cook cannot keep up with the crowds that frequent this, well, let's face it, dive in the middle of nowhere (some Bostonians I know consider the rural towns 40 minutes south of the "Hub of the Universe" to be like a scene out of the movie Deliverance).

Truth be told, Norton is a fabulous little town steeped in quintessential New England traditions with tall white church steeple churches, a beautiful town common and scenic lakes and ponds. (Norton is also home to the highly-regarded Wheaton College). And, further truth be told, Wendell's is a terrific, little restaurant where you're likely to find buffalo chicken wings that set the gold standard.

I'm not big on frequent consumption of wings, in general, as they are definitely not good for the heart. But as an occasional indulgence, do they ever taste good. Wendell's certainly brings that type of food to the next level!

The delicious "House Specialty" buffalo-style chicken wings and boneless chicken wings can be ordered with varying degrees of spiciness.  The "Double Dare" stands as the hottest sauce followed by "Suicidal," "Extra Spicy," "Sassy or Regular," "Sissy Suicidal," and just plain "Sissy." You get the picture. I ordered the "Extra Spicy" buffalo-style chicken wings and experienced the perfect mix of tender chicken, crispiness, spices and sauce. The tastes sticks to your ribs and mind long after consumption.

Service was pleasant in the odd front dining room where tables are arranged on the perimeter, leaving a very wide open space in the middle. The back room is the bar, where the drinks and conversation were definitely flowing with local flavor. I learned quite a bit about the town of Norton without ever leaving my seat!  

If your dining partner(s) love wings but you don't, Wendell's has plenty more on the menu. Shepherd's pie, fish 'n chips, steak tips, ribs, pasta dishes, chili and sandwiches are a few of the items you'll find here. I had a cup of Portuguese kale soup with my wings (how often have you heard of that combination?). Excellent soup, with the right mix of kale, spices and sausage!

As well expected, Wendell's has an extensive drink selection, including bottled and draft beers, red and white wines, cordials and cocktails. I just drank plenty of water during my meal and, admittedly, in bucket quantities for the next several days. Wendell's won't be part of anyone's colon cleanse program, but for those that love wings and plenty of them, this little roadside gem will satisfy to great effect.


Wendell's Pub
30 West Main St.
Norton, MA
Tel. (508) 285-5555

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